The Winklevoss twins want $32m in Bitcoin back that was allegedly stolen

The Winklevoss brothers file a legal suit as they allege someone took a lot of Bitcoins off them…

Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss have garnered a growing profile in the cryptocurrency space, not least for their ownership of the Gemini exchange. But their interest in cryptocurrency dates back quite some time. And their early days in the marketplace underpin a new legal case that they’ve brough.

Back in 2012, the pair argue that they had 5000 Bitcoins, that weren’t worth too much back then, but at today’s prices, have a value of over $30m. The reason this has come to light is courtesy of a new lawsuit, that the pair have filed.

It’s aimed at Charlie Shrem, who was released from prison after serving a year behind bars. He was convicted as part of the crackdown on the Silk Road digital drugs market.

Thing is, when he left prison, his purchases were apparently in the extravagant side. The lawsuit filed by the Winklevoss twins contends that Shrem has bought boats, cars and a Florida mansion. All after arguing that when he went to prison, he was pretty much out of cash.

Shrem used to work with the Winklevoss brothers just over five years ago, and that’s where the core of the lawsuit lies. For they argue that he allegedly stole the aforementioned Bitcoins off them around then. As per a New York Times report, the original trial judge who sent Shrem down has “already agreed to freeze some of Shrem’s financial assets”.

Shrem’s lawyer denies the claims in the lawsuit, noting that “Charlie plans to vigorously defend himself and quickly clear his name”.